Find out a bit more about Ben, what drives him and what being an SLR Ambassador means in our ‘Quick five-minute Q&A.
Partnering with our Ambassadors means we can equip them with the best SLR boats to give them the competitive edge while providing advice and mentorship to help them be successful in their rowing journey.
And, as an SLR Ambassador for over 2-years, we’ve had the honour to support Ben in his rowing endeavours both at home and abroad and see him develop and grow as a world-class athlete.
Name / Age / Location:
Benjamin Mason / 22 / Cambridge
How long have you been rowing?
Eight years
What are your goals for rowing – now and in the future?
My short-term goals will be to perform well at the u23 Worlds this year and medal at next year’s u23 Worlds. I also want to defend as many titles as I can at next year’s Nationals when the competition gets tougher and become a future prospect for the NZ elite team. Long-term, I want to compete and medal in the Olympics.
What do you hope to achieve with the support of SL Racing?
SL Racings support helps me widen my support team and gain knowledge very few people in the world can offer. It allows me to take the next step toward becoming a more professional athlete. Not only will I be set up in a boat perfect for me, but I’ll also have the confidence in my equipment that nothing is holding me back.
What do you think is your greatest rowing achievement to date?
I think my greatest achievement to date is a difficult one to answer. I’ve been fortunate enough to race at a World Champs before COVID hit, which was a massive achievement. But more recently, I had the most successful Nationals of my life, winning five events, including three premiere events. However, my most challenging accomplishment and my personal favourite would have been my 1000km coastal row to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. Which could be why some people saw me racing in a pink row suit in previous seasons.
What drove you to apply for the SL Racing Ambassador Programme?
I think I applied because it was a great opportunity for me to best my chances for the future with where I currently am with my rowing. I’ve been very proud of what I have achieved so far, but now I think I’m at the level where it’s hard to start separating yourself from the best, and their support will help give me the edge to do that.
2023/2024 Rowing Diaries.
As all professional athletes will tell you, not everything goes according to plan, and 2023 was no exception for Ben. It proved to be a challenging year with exhilarating highs and devastating lows.
After being named in his first touring elite team and partnered with childhood hero Robbie Manson – representing NZ in the men’s double at the World Championships in Serbia, Ben successfully qualified for the Olympics. However, ongoing issues with forearm pump/ Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) required much-needed surgery on both arms, requiring time away from the water and, unfortunately, needing to be replaced by Jordan Parry for the men’s double contenders.
As Ben shared, this tested his resilience. Still, unwavering support from SLR and the rowing community and a commitment to following a strict rehabilitation programme have meant Ben has returned better and stronger. We may still see Ben on the water internationally in 2024 as he’s part of the sculling reserve for the Olympics. Regardless, we know his future is bright, and he’ll have many more opportunities to be ‘first across the line’ in the years to come.
“Enjoy the process, the small wins and each step along the way – as you navigate your journey”. Ben Mason
We asked Ben if he had any advice for younger rowers aspiring to his level.
“Dream Big” was his answer, “with the ability to overcome any obstacles that may stand in your way,” something Ben has learned personally over the past year. And his final words of wisdom? “It’s crucial to stay dedicated, embrace challenges and find inspiration within the sport and from role models and mentors.” With sound advice like this, we can’t help but feel Ben is well on his way to becoming a mentor, inspiring the next generation of NZ rowing champions.
Keep an eye out for updates on Ben.
